The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 17 Episode 152 Beverly Sills (guest host)

Beverly Sills, the world-renowned opera singer, takes on the role of guest host for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson on this episode. With a charming and commanding presence, Sills proves to be the perfect substitute host for Carson, who is absent for the evening.

The episode opens with Sills introducing her first guest, actor Bill Cosby. The two engage in witty banter as they discuss Cosby's work on his hit television series, The Cosby Show, as well as his life as a father and husband. Cosby shares funny anecdotes and insights, and Sills proves to be a skillful interviewer, guiding the conversation in an engaging and entertaining way.

Next up is comedian Jay Leno, who is making his first appearance on The Tonight Show. Sills introduces Leno with her characteristic warmth and humor, and the two immediately strike up a lively conversation. Leno shares stories about his early days in comedy and his experiences performing on the road, and Sills proves to be a supportive and encouraging host, laughing along with Leno and keeping the conversation moving.

As the show continues, Sills welcomes more guests, including actress Rue McClanahan and singer John Denver. Each conversation is lively and engaging, with Sills showcasing her skills as a host and interviewer. She asks thoughtful questions and responds with wit and charm, putting her guests at ease and making the audience feel like they are part of the conversation.

Throughout the show, Sills also performs several musical numbers, showcasing her incredible voice and stage presence. She sings a selection of classic operatic arias, as well as a few popular songs, and the audience is clearly in awe of her talent. Sills proves to be a true multi-hyphenate, excelling not only as a host and interviewer, but also as a performer.

As the show comes to a close, Sills thanks her guests and the audience for a great evening. She expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to host The Tonight Show and promises to return if she is ever asked back. It's clear that Sills has won over both the guests and the audience with her charm, talent, and wit, and her performance as guest host is sure to go down in television history as one of the most memorable and entertaining episodes of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.